Board Candidate Bio for Inshirah Durrett (2023)
Name: Inshirah Durrett
Neighborhood: 6th Ward (Lower Lawrenceville)
What years have you lived in Lawrenceville? 2018 – current
Why did you move to Lawrenceville? For the community and quality of life. Lawrenceville is a wonderful place to live.
Current Job Title (if employed): HR Consultant and Compass Business Solutions
Why do you want to be on the LU Board? What would you like to work on within the neighborhood? I would like to be on the board to give back to the community, feel more connected to the wonderful things going on and my neighbors. I would like to meet new people and contribute in any way that’s needed.
Please list Volunteer, Non-Profit, or Board Experience: KidsVoice Board Member (3 years). 412 Food Rescue (3+ years). Pittsburgh Human Resource Association (5+ years). I also work with several nonprofits and nonprofit boards through my work as an HR Consultant.
What makes Lawrenceville unique? Why? I purchased my first home here 5 years ago (still living in it). I believe in historical preservation; my husband and I are fixing up our house. I wanted to live here for years prior to actually moving here from Millvale; I’m originally from Philadelphia. Finally, I enjoy the community that I found here in Lawrenceville. Everyone is so welcoming and there are so many great initiatives and programs in our neighborhood. I’m proud to live here.
One of LU’s core values is equity and the organization has recently embraced anti-oppression trainings to support our work in this area. What’s one idea you have for how LU should live out its commitment to equity? Try to make it a place that’s welcoming to all. Affordability housing, make startup businesses welcome, accessible sidewalks, a community center for adults, neighbor meet and greet sessions (to break down barriers and allow people to get to know each other better) and more biking lanes.
How are you involved in the Lawrenceville community? I volunteer as needed by planting trees, packing and delivering food, volunteered at farmer’s market, and attended community events and meetings. I use the LU Newsletter and social to stay engaged.
What would you bring to the LU Board (e.g. experience, skills, perspective, network, etc.)? I would bring 15 years HR experience, homeowner perspective, millennial perspective, and a long history of volunteer experience. I’m driven and I like to get things done.
What is one fun fact that others might be surprised to know about you? I just purchased a red Vespa and I’m loving riding it around town!! I’m planning to get rid of my car.